What types of head protection are available?
The Laboratory provides hard hats that meet The ANSI Z89.1 standard (officially ANSI/ISEA Z89.1) for Laboratory employees who work in conditions where there is a potential for head injury from falling or flying objects or when there is a danger from exposed electrical conductors. Hard hats are available through the eBuy procurement system.
The type of head protection required depends on the work being performed. Follow the guidance below AND consult with your Supervisor prior to acquiring head protection. Some areas and projects at the Lab require hard hats with chin straps
Helmet Types (Impact & Penetration Protection)
- Type I: Designed primarily to reduce the force of impact from blows strictly to the top (crown) of the head.
- Type II: Designed to reduce the force of lateral (side) impacts as well as blows to the top, front, and back of the head. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Electrical Classes
- Class C (Conductive): Designed strictly for impact and penetration; provides no electrical protection and often features ventilation vents. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
- Class G (General): Tested to withstand up to 2,200 volts of electricity (not an indication of the voltage the wearer is protected against). [1, 2]
- Class E (Electrical): Tested to withstand up to 20,000 volts, making it ideal for utility and high-voltage environments. [1, 2]
When is head protection required?
On a job site, it is usually the construction superintendent who is responsible for specifying when head protection is required. Head protection is required in the following situations:
- Anytime there is a danger of falling or flying objects
- Anytime overhead construction is in progress
- Any area near exposed electrical conductors where a danger of arcing may exist
- Any excavation or trench where loose rock or soil could pose a danger by falling from the excavation face
- Any area around a crane lift or similar situation where objects being swung, dropped, etc., may present a danger
- Whenever a construction superintendent or other responsible employee has reason to believe danger exists.
- Any area that is posted as requiring hard hats.
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Click HERE to submit a request for more help with head protection.
